What are Contamination Obsessions?

Contamination is the most commonly known form of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.  However, most of us have a simplified understanding of how contamination obsessions present – it is far more complicated than simply hand washing!

Excessive hand washing, while common, can also be paired with excessive wiping after using the toilet, excessive drying, and excessive laundering.  Similarly, soap, hand sanitizer, wipes, and toilet paper can all be used in large quantities.  Decontamination rituals often must be done in a certain order, or repeated until they feel “just right.”

Confusingly, those suffering from contamination can actually avoid washing because the complexity of the routines that must be followed for decontamination are so overwhelming.

Another presentation of contamination obsession is only using bathrooms in one’s own home.  This avoidance can be so extreme as to cause major health problems and social impediments.  Usually this type of obsession involves black and white thinking of some area being contaminated or clean – and even certain bathrooms or rooms in the same house can have distinct designations.  

For those whose loved ones are experiencing contamination OCD, they may find themselves the recipient of many reassurance-seeking questions.  Individuals may ask others what is safe, what has been touched, or who has been in a space.  Contamination OCD sometimes involves checking behaviors with loved ones – including asking others to perform some rituals.  In some cases, those with contamination OCD may compulsively confess that they aren’t clean enough. 

Fortunately, contamination OCD is highly treatable by an experienced professional.  The first step is reaching out to an OCD specialist, and getting a full evaluation.  

Don’t Delay! Contact Kairos Wellness Collective today to inquire about our OCD Treatment. Feeling more ease and freedom is one step away!